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Crop Protection & Pesticides

UPL Sweep Power Herbicide: Glufosinate Ammonium Guide

Sweep Power is a broad-spectrum non-selective post-emergence contact herbicide manufactured by UPL containing Glufosinate Ammonium 13.5 percent SL. It provides rapid desiccation and control against tough annual and perennial broadleaf weeds and grasses in non-crop areas and plantation crops.

Last reviewed: 11 November 2026

Active Ingredient and Glutamine Synthetase Mode of Action

Sweep Power contains Glufosinate Ammonium (13.5% SL), a contact herbicide belonging to the phosphinic acid chemical class.

It works by irreversibly inhibiting the glutamine synthetase enzyme in green plants, halting nitrogen assimilation and causing toxic ammonia accumulation in plant cells.

This rapid ammonia accumulation destroys chloroplasts, shuts down photosynthesis, and causes cell membrane rupture and foliar desiccation within days.

  • Formulation: 13.5 percent Soluble Liquid (SL)
  • Unique mode of action: Glutamine synthetase inhibitor entirely distinct from glyphosate or paraquat
  • Contact action: Rapid foliar scorching with limited translaminar movement, destroying exposed weed foliage

Target Weed Spectrum and Authorized Use Domains

Sweep Power controls difficult weeds that have developed tolerance or resistance to traditional glyphosate or triazine herbicides.

It is registered for weed management in tea plantations and directed inter-row weeding in orchard crops using protective hoods.

  • Grassy weeds: Controls Eleusine indica (goosegrass), Digitaria sanguinalis, and Echinochloa species
  • Broadleaf weeds: Suppresses Commelina benghalensis, Amaranthus viridis, and Bidens pilosa
  • Directed spray: Using protective hoods enables safe inter-row weeding in vineyards and fruit orchards

Spraying Instructions, Moisture, and Operator Safety

Apply when target weeds are actively growing with lush green foliage under warm, sunny conditions.

Use flat fan or floodjet nozzles at low operating pressure to maintain uniform droplet distribution and prevent drift onto desirable crop foliage.

Wear full personal protective equipment during chemical handling and spraying.

  • Sunlight requirement: Bright sunny conditions accelerate ammonia accumulation and foliar desiccation
  • Clean water: Use clean, silt-free water with flat fan nozzles for thorough foliar wetting
  • Safety apparel: Wear protective rubber gloves, mask, and safety goggles during handling and spraying

Official source

Check the latest rules, benefits and forms here. KisanPe is an independent platform and is not a government website.

Central Insecticides Board & Registration Committee ↗

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Common questions

What is the active chemical in UPL Sweep Power?

Sweep Power contains Glufosinate Ammonium 13.5% SL, a non-selective contact herbicide.

How does Glufosinate Ammonium kill weeds?

It inhibits the glutamine synthetase enzyme, causing lethal ammonia accumulation and rapid cellular breakdown in exposed leaves.

Can Sweep Power be used for selective spraying over crops?

No, Sweep Power is non-selective; it will kill any green crop foliage it touches and must only be used in non-crop areas or with protective spray hoods.

General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.

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